The Belgian Red Lions – the national hockey team – have been selected for the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup, as announced this Monday afternoon. National coach Shane McLeod informed his players this morning before officially announcing his 20-man roster. These players will participate in the Hockey World Cup, which will take place from August 15th to 30th in Wavre and Amstelveen (Netherlands).

As we count down to the highly anticipated FIH Hockey World Cup Belgium and Netherlands 2026, we take a closer look at the competing men's and women's teams ready to battle for global supremacy. In this special preview series, we profile each nation's journey to the tournament, examining their road to qualification, historic achievements, key players to watch, and the tactical minds leading them into the ultimate hockey showcase. In today’s story we take a look at the Japan men’s team, ranked #15 in the world. 

South African Hockey is proud to announce the SA Men’s squad selected to represent the country at the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup.